Soft vs Hard Credit Inquiry (US Explained)
When you apply for credit, lenders may check your credit. In the US, these checks are usually classified as either soft or hard inquiries.
Soft inquiries
Soft inquiries are typically used for prequalification, background checks, or when you check your own credit. They usually do not impact your credit score.
Hard inquiries
Hard inquiries often happen when you submit a formal application (credit card, auto loan, mortgage). They can have a small, temporary impact on your score.
How to use this info
- Prefer prequalification tools when you’re just exploring options.
- Avoid multiple applications in a short window unless rate-shopping applies.
- Plan hard pulls around major borrowing timelines.
Continue to check your score
Back to the credit score check page.